JFCB Conductor

James Farrell Concert Band is now welcoming applications from anyone interested in being our new conductor, from Spring 2026, when our current conductor steps down.

​

We are a Leeds community band, working in the community, for the community. We rehearse on Tuesday evenings, from 7.45pm to 9.45pm, in Holbeck.

​

Our mission is to promote music making for the enjoyment of all, and at the same time provide a platform for amateur and student players. The band consists of about 35 instrumentalists - woodwind, brass and percussion. We do not audition our members, and it is a key part of the band's ethos that rehearsals should be relaxed and fun for all members, while still being focussed and productive.

​

Interested conductors should be able to engage with players of a wide variety of abilities and experience. Candidates must have a working knowledge of concert band instrumentation and repertoire, have an organised but flexible approach to rehearsal planning and be comfortable planning, directing and compering concert programmes.

​

It may be helpful for candidates to have practical music teaching experience, and/or to be able to arrange music for the band from time to time, but this is not essential. 

​

We would welcome a conductor in the early stages of their conducting journey, as long as they are confident and enthusiastic in front of a band.

​

Auditions for applicants will take place in early spring 2026, with a view to taking up the post after Easter, but we are able to be flexible around existing commitments if required. Auditions will involve directing the band for half of a rehearsal (roughly 45-50 minutes, to include at least 15 minutes on one piece of our choice) followed by a short informal interview with some members of the band committee. 

​​​

This post is remunerated, with fees to be discussed at the audition.

​

In the first instance please register your interest via the contact form on our website: